Tasmania: Wildlife, Wine & Coastal Escapes Beyond Hobart

Tasmania is one of Australia's most rewarding destinations for travelers seeking a mix of nature, food, wildlife, and authentic local experiences. While many visitors begin in Hobart, the island's greatest treasures are often found beyond the capital, from secluded beaches and wildlife-rich islands to vineyard-covered valleys and charming coastal communities.

In this episode, Tim and David explore some of their favorite experiences across Tasmania, highlighting destinations that showcase the island's remarkable diversity. From helicopter winery tours and floating saunas to penguin encounters and pristine national parks, Tasmania offers a travel experience that feels both adventurous and deeply connected to place.

The conversation also emphasizes one of Tasmania's greatest strengths: its ability to deliver world-class experiences without the crowds often found elsewhere in Australia. Whether you're interested in wildlife, food, outdoor adventure, or simply slowing down and enjoying the landscape, Tasmania rewards travelers who take the time to explore beyond the obvious.

Top Things to See & Do

Maria Island

A short ferry ride from Tasmania's east coast, Maria Island combines convict history, Aboriginal heritage, spectacular scenery, and some of the island's best wildlife viewing. Wombats and wallabies are abundant, and the car-free environment makes it ideal for cycling and hiking.

Unique Charters Helicopter Winery Tour

Departing from Launceston, these scenic helicopter tours offer a memorable way to experience Tasmania's wine regions. Guests enjoy aerial views of rivers, farmland, mountains, and vineyards while visiting a variety of cellar doors.

Cataract Gorge Scenic Chairlift

One of Launceston's most iconic attractions, this historic chairlift crosses the dramatic Cataract Gorge and provides access to walking trails, scenic lookouts, and beautiful riverside landscapes.

Bicheno Penguin Experience

The coastal town of Bicheno offers one of Tasmania's best opportunities to observe little penguins returning to shore at dusk, particularly during breeding season.

Sauna Boat at Little Oyster Cove Marina

A uniquely Tasmanian wellness experience, this floating sauna combines waterfront views, a relaxing atmosphere, and optional cold plunges in a beautiful marina setting.

Wineglass Bay Cruises

Cruises through the Freycinet region showcase some of Tasmania's most spectacular coastal scenery, including white sand beaches, granite cliffs, and opportunities to spot dolphins, whales, seabirds, and penguins.

Freycinet National Park

One of Australia's most celebrated national parks, Freycinet is known for dramatic coastal landscapes, hiking trails, wildlife encounters, and the famous Wineglass Bay lookout.

Where to Eat & Drink

The Lobster Shack, Bicheno

A relaxed waterfront seafood spot known for fresh Tasmanian rock lobster and lobster rolls.

Stillwater Restaurant, Launceston

One of Tasmania's most respected dining destinations, celebrated for its seafood, local ingredients, and waterfront setting.

Tasmanian Wine Country

The vineyards surrounding Launceston offer opportunities to meet winemakers, sample cool-climate wines, and experience the island's thriving food and wine culture.

Neighborhoods & Regions to Explore

Launceston

Tasmania's second-largest city serves as a gateway to wine country, outdoor adventures, and one of the island's strongest culinary scenes.

Bicheno

A laid-back coastal town known for seafood, surfing, beach culture, and penguin viewing.

East Coast Tasmania

Home to some of Australia's most beautiful beaches, marine wildlife experiences, and scenic coastal drives.

Turners Beach